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For couples & event hosts

Planning guides from the WEVO community

Practical advice shaped by eight years of questions, recommendations and warnings shared in our group.

Booking timeline

When to book each wedding vendor

A general guide. Popular Saturdays from May to October fill up fast, so book earlier for peak season.

  1. 12+ months
    Venue, photographer, plannerYour date and venue shape every other booking.
  2. 9–12 months
    Caterer, DJ or band, videographerMany caterers are tied to venues, so confirm before you shop around.
  3. 6–9 months
    Florist, hair & makeup, officiantHair & makeup artists are among the most-requested vendors in our group. Don't leave them late.
  4. 4–6 months
    Cake, rentals, invitationsSend save-the-dates earlier for destination or long-weekend weddings.
  5. 2–3 months
    Final fittings & confirmationsConfirm arrival times, deposits paid and day-of contacts with every vendor.

Protect your budget

5 red flags before you book a wedding vendor

  1. No written contractEvery booking needs a contract that lists services, dates, fees and the cancellation policy.
  2. Pressure to pay everything upfrontA deposit is normal. Full payment months ahead, or "today only" pricing, is not.
  3. No reviews or real past workAsk to see full galleries or recent events, not just a highlight reel.
  4. Vague about what's includedHours, travel fees, overtime and taxes should be spelled out before you sign.
  5. Slow or rude replies before you've even bookedHow a vendor communicates now is how they'll communicate during your planning.

Before you sign

Questions to ask every vendor

  • Are you available on our date, and how long will you hold it before a deposit?
  • What exactly is included in this price, and what costs extra?
  • Are taxes (HST), travel fees and gratuities included in the quote?
  • What is your cancellation and rescheduling policy?
  • Do you carry liability insurance? Some Ontario venues require it.
  • Who will actually be there on the day: you or a team member?
  • Can we speak with a couple you worked with recently?
  • When are payments due, and how do you accept them?

Gifts & registry

Registry tips for Canadian couples

Many popular US registry sites don't ship to Canada, so check before you build your list. A universal registry lets you add gifts from any Canadian store in one place, which makes life easier for guests.

We're putting together gift and registry guides for Ontario couples. Follow our Facebook page to see them first.

  • Confirm the registry ships within Canada, and how much shipping costs
  • Include gifts at a range of price points
  • Add a honeymoon or experience fund if you'd rather not get things
  • Share one link on your wedding website instead of several

Still have questions?

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Post your date, your area and what you're looking for. Members are quick to share who they'd book again.

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